Once in a while you get hit with it: the 15- to 25-page research paper, also called the term paper or semester project. This is your chance to join the community of the 20 percent or so of college professors who are actually doing research. How do they do it? And how can you? Have a look at our seven best tips for doing research like a professor:

1. Start from where you are.2. Think E. 3. Discover WorldCat.4. Learn the shortcuts.5. Use the resources that live and breathe.6. Learn about ILL.7. Look for "gateway" sources.